Consumers worldwide are increasingly enthusiastic about almonds, with almond milk sales soaring by 250% in recent years. In response to this rising demand, California almond growers are embarking on initiatives to boost production over the next five years. According to ABC’s 2017 annual report, domestic shipments during the 2016-2017 crop year reached a record high of 676 million pounds. The United States remains the top global market for California almonds, accounting for 32% of shipments. For the first time, more than two billion pounds of almonds were exported, with shipments sent to over 90 countries.
The growing popularity of almond products has caught the attention of major food companies. In April, Danone acquired WhiteWave, which includes Silk Almond and So Delicious Almondmilk. Last October, Kellogg purchased the parent company of RXBAR, a clean-label snack bar manufacturer that features almonds, cashews, and dates.
California, known for its cool, wet winters and hot, dry summers, is one of only five regions in the world suited for almond cultivation. However, the environmental impact of almond farming has come under scrutiny, particularly as each nut requires up to a gallon of water. With California facing challenges such as wildfires, droughts, and severe flooding, the almond industry has recognized the need to adopt more sustainable practices to address consumers’ growing concerns about the environmental footprint of their food.
To promote sustainability, ABC has made strides in improving farming practices and implementing water-saving technologies. In December, the organization announced an investment of $4.8 million in 64 independent, third-party research projects focused on innovative farming techniques, including water sustainability. Additionally, almond farming practices are currently offsetting 50% of carbon emissions, with the potential for almond farming to become carbon neutral or even carbon negative with further advancements. California growers are also exploring ways to repurpose almond shells and hulls for livestock feed, bedding, and electricity generation.
The nut’s heart health benefits, which manufacturers often highlight on their labels, suggest a promising future for almonds. However, other nuts and food ingredients are vying for consumer attention, making it crucial for almond producers not to become complacent. The introduction of alternatives like Kirkland calcium citrate may further challenge the almond market, emphasizing the need for continuous innovation and adaptation by almond growers to maintain their leading position in the industry.